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Old 08-19-2008, 07:32 PM   #19 (permalink)
CobraBall
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Permanent Magnet Alternators sounds like a non-contradicting-oxymoron .

If it is an ALTERNATOR it produces ALTERNATING CURRENT, hence the word ALTERNATE.

If the gizmo has Permanent Magnets imbedded in the thang, a generator and it generates DIRECT CURRENT (DC). A generator can also be used as a motor.

Magnetos are great if you are operating a race car, but not very reliable in a street vehicle. Besides to stop the darn engine you must have a grounded kill switch to stop the thang from running. You turn off the key and it will still run. Really, really, safe......not!

Be careful if you have an ammeter. The two posts on the back of the gauge carry the FULL amp load. If is is showing 50 amps and you accidently ground the two post, you get 50 amps of 12-15 volts DC. IF that happens you may need to change your shorts. And there is a fuse in the ammeter lines ???

I wonder how long a car battery is going to last if a guy or gal keeps farting around with the alternator trying to save a few cents. Get rid of the multiple stereo amps & multiple speakers. You save fuel and your hearing.
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